Making strong efforts to host the 2036 Olympics: PM Modi

By Admin

05 Jan, 2026

Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated India’s strong commitment to becoming a global sporting powerhouse, asserting that the country is preparing with full strength to host the 2036 Olympic Games. Speaking at the inaugural function of the 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship in Varanasi via video conference on January 4, 2025, the Prime Minister highlighted how hosting mega sporting events is central to providing Indian athletes with greater opportunities to compete and excel on the world stage.

India’s Olympic Vision for 2036
Emphasising the government’s long-term vision, Mr. Modi stated that the 2030 Commonwealth Games will be held in India and that strong efforts are underway to host the 2036 Olympics. According to him, these initiatives are not just about hosting global events but about creating a competitive environment where more and more players get exposure and opportunities to participate at higher levels.

Empowering Athletes Through Government Initiatives
The Prime Minister underlined the impact of flagship programmes such as Khelo India, calling it a game-changer in identifying and nurturing young talent. Through this campaign, hundreds of youth have already progressed to the national level. He also highlighted the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which focuses on elite athletes by providing structured funding, world-class training, and international exposure.

Strengthening Sports Infrastructure and Governance
Mr. Modi noted that India’s sports ecosystem has undergone a major transformation over the past decade. The government has significantly increased the sports budget and shifted to an athlete-centric model that prioritises talent identification, scientific training methods, nutrition, and transparent selection processes. Reforms such as the National Sports Governance Act and the Khelo Bharat Policy 2025 aim to enhance transparency in sports organisations and ensure that the right talent receives the right opportunities, while also allowing youth to balance sports and education.

India’s Growing Global Sporting Presence
Highlighting India’s rising stature in global sports, the Prime Minister said the country has hosted more than 20 major international events in the last 10 years. These include prestigious tournaments like the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, the Hockey World Cup, and major international chess events. He contrasted this progress with the past, recalling a time when sports did not receive adequate attention from either society or the government.

Varanasi as an Emerging Sporting Hub
Expressing happiness over Varanasi’s growing importance on India’s sporting map, Mr. Modi said hosting the Senior National Volleyball Championship was a significant milestone for the city. The tournament, being held from January 4 to 11, features over 1,000 players from 58 teams across the country, reflecting the expanding reach and inclusivity of Indian sports.

Lessons from Volleyball and India’s Development
Drawing a powerful parallel between volleyball and the nation’s growth, the Prime Minister remarked that success is never achieved alone. Volleyball, he said, teaches coordination, trust, and shared responsibility values that mirror India’s development journey. Just as every player has a role on the court, every citizen contributes to the nation’s progress, and collective effort leads to victory.

Conclusion
India’s push to host the 2036 Olympics reflects more than an ambition to stage a global event; it represents a broader transformation of the country’s sports culture. With robust policies, increased investment, improved governance, and a clear focus on athletes, India is steadily building a strong foundation for sporting excellence. As the Prime Minister noted, the nation is on the “reform express,” and sports is a vital destination on that journey.